Ethel Merker Series!

Merker Matic SeriesModel H175Design features such as its newly designed 4th branch, dual bore, and mouthpipe tapers lead professionals to claim an ease of blowing in all registers as well as an exceptionally quick response and a smooth, precise legato. It is also available as a screw bell model.Model H176Frank Holton Company and horn legend Ethel Merker joined forces to create this newest double French horn in the acclaimed Merker-Matic line. All the features and characteristics of the popular Holton Merker-Matic French horns are present here-with the addition of a bronze bell for extra tonal warmth and richness. Its tightly engineered mechanical linkage provides worry-free play and ease of adjustment. It is also available as a screw bell model.Model H183This horn has the same features as the H175, except this is the yellow brass lacquer version of the popular Merker Matic horn. It is also available as a screw bell model.Model H189Those hornists who want an instrument that provides great volume and sonorous tone without sacrificing control in the upper register need look no further. By combining an extra-large-throated bell and branch with the innovative Merker dual bore, the H189 offers the best of both worlds. It produces a tone that is exceptionally full, with rich depth that retains its core and timbral qualities. At the same time, it enables the artist to reach those difficult high notes with greater ease and accuracy. The horn also features the versatility of the independent Bb/F tuning system, as found on our finest Holton models, along with the adjustable finger hook and heavyweight valve caps that are a standard feature on all Merker-Matic horns. It is also available as a screw bell model.

This horn produces a fantastic, rich resonant sound in all registers. I have been playing it for over 5 years. I am especially happy with the mid to high notes on the Bb side. The smaller bore on the Bb side seems to provide me with more control and flexibility than on my former instrument, without sacrificing projection and sound quality in any way. The other hornists in my group all play Conn 8D. I can blend with them easily, but when I want to soar above the section, no problem. My only issue is that the valves tend to be a little bit noisier than the Conn's. This wasn't true at first, and may be a simple matter for the shop tech to address. Others in my section also use a Bach #3, so the mouthpiece is not a contributor to the differences.

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